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Post by dragonlots on Feb 17, 2010 14:00:58 GMT -5
Quick question, would it help anyone here for me to write several posts on marketing for writers? Not just where, but how, and other information that needs to be considered? Most of what I’d be sharing will be coming from conferences, conventions, my writer’s group, other pros, and whatever I’ve managed to pick up from other sources.
Sound off and let me know if this is something of interest.
Thanks.
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Post by torainfor on Feb 17, 2010 16:59:09 GMT -5
Yes, please!
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Post by courageforever on Feb 17, 2010 20:47:10 GMT -5
For sure! We're all learners here.
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Post by journeyman on Feb 17, 2010 21:23:03 GMT -5
You betcha!
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Post by beckyminor on Feb 17, 2010 21:57:27 GMT -5
Quite frankly, the marketing aspect of this whole writer thing is the part of the process that scares me to death. I have a hard time asking anybody for anything, so although I know it will be painful for me to learn the art of marketing, I know it's essential. So, what ever you can share would be hugely valuable! Thanks for being willing to offer up whatever knowledge you gain. ![:)](//storage.proboards.com/forum/images/smiley/smiley.png)
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Post by metalikhan on Feb 18, 2010 1:23:03 GMT -5
That would be awesome, dragonlots!
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Post by tris on Feb 18, 2010 9:44:21 GMT -5
I'd say it's one area most of us are sadly lacking in. Got my notebook and pen all ready. Fire away!
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Post by Grace Bridges on Feb 18, 2010 15:56:55 GMT -5
Do it! Sounds awesome ![:)](//storage.proboards.com/forum/images/smiley/smiley.png)
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Post by dragonlots on Feb 19, 2010 13:59:28 GMT -5
I will be doing weekly updates under this thread. I will covering a number of aspects of marketing which will range from attending conferences/conventions to what to look at when choosing a publisher, blogging, the art of readings and anything else that a writer should look at or do while doing PR work for their book or stories.
Yes, I know this is very difficult for most of us since we are introverts and ‘putting ourselves out there’ is scary. However, in my long journey toward professional publication I have discovered it is worth it even while it pushes me out of my comfort zone. I am hoping by sharing my experiences and the knowledge I have gleamed over the years helps those of you about to take your first shaky step into this ‘new’ world of publishing.
While in college, which wasn’t all that long ago, I made a comment in one of my writing classes about doing readings and signings. Someone much younger replied, “I just want to write and let the publisher worry about it.” Both the professor and I said, “You may not have a choice.” We got a strange look.
However, this is proving to very much the case. In fact, unless an author is someone like Stephen King, Stephanie Meyer or J.K. Rowling, the publisher isn’t going to spend any money on a new writer to promote their work. That falls into your lap.
Ahhhh! Gulp! Now what?
Step one: Take a deep breath. Remember, God is never going to hand you more than you can handle. He tells us not to fear. Although, stage fright is normal and your friend since it’s better to be terrified before hand than while in front of an audience and you freeze up.
Step two: See if your college has a course similar to one I took at Metropolitan State College called Oral Interpretation. I minored in Speech and this class was required. I discovered it taught skills that are very useful for writers and I recommended it to all the writers I took classes with. Most looked at me like I had three heads.
Step three: Search out opportunities to read in front of groups. Okay, I know the most common fear is public speaking, but the more you practice, the easier it becomes. Honest.
Places for this:
Science Fiction conventions: Many are now hosting open readings. Show up and get on the list. Not only can you reach new readers, but often pro writers attend and they might take an interest or know of an editor searching for what you’ve written.
Writing conferences: Three years ago I got to read for Denise Little a long time editor, at Pike’s Peak Writing Conference in Colorado Springs. Because of my background I was the only one who didn’t need to use a mic and, oddly enough, the only one to get positive feedback on my book. Talk about being shocked!
This also provides you a chance to get editorial feedback that will help your work. Take it. The editors you read for know the market.
Bookstores: Of course, you’ll only be able to do this after publication. Remember, this is your chance to impress not only your current readers but possible new ones. This is why I suggested the class I did. You don’t do a good reading, you don’t win over your readership.
Public libraries: Many have author series. Again, this is after publication and I suggest researching your local branches to see if they have this program.
Schools: Depending on what age group you’re writing for. I would check the policies of the districts to find out if this is an option in your area.
Radio/TV interviews: I know a few writers who have done these. They find them a bit more scary than other types of readings.
Keep your eyes open. What I’ve suggested above are just a few ideas. You might stumble over one in your area that no one else knows about. I don’t recommend visualizing them in their underwear. There are some people you really DON’T want to see that way.
Above all, remember they’re a friendly audience and are there because they want to be. Relax. Take a deep breath. Begin.
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Post by tris on Feb 24, 2010 14:34:51 GMT -5
I keep hearing about "readings", but so far no one has ever explained what you do at one. Are you reading random passages? Long or short? In the middle or at the end?
I don't have a problem speaking before groups (had to do that all the time as a missionary), but the idea of reading a selected portion of my book outloud without any structure is a bit appalling. Not to mention boring. But then I don't listen to audio books anyway, so I don't have a background in this.
What do you do after you read the selection? Hope someone comments? Ask questions to spark debate?
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Post by dragonlots on Feb 25, 2010 12:08:19 GMT -5
The question has been raised about readings. Oddly enough, I actually ran a panel at MileHiCon called ‘Improving your Reading’ last October with fellow panelists:
Ed Bryant, one of our local well known writers, protégé of Harlan Ellison.
David Boop, another local new writer, with several short stories and one book currently to his credit, ‘She Murdered me with Science’. Fellow Christain.
Ronnie Seagren, has at least one book out, ‘Seventh Daughter’.
B. Nickless, who does something similar at the Pikes Peaks Writing Conference.
Some of things we covered was:
The length of your selection depends on the amount of time you’re given. This can vary from ten minutes to an hour. If you’re sharing time with another writer, please be considerate and don’t run over.
Where an author reads from is a matter of choice. David Boop has several passages he read from in his book depending on the amount of time he has. I personally always read from the second chapter of ‘Winter Awakening’, or at the end of the first into the second. However, if reading from another area of your book, always give a bit of background so the listeners are not completely lost.
Now, there are times, like at a writing conference or workshop when you’re required to read at the beginning of the first chapter.
Practice your reading at home before you read in front of your audience. Don’t rush. Read at a natural speed and time yourself. If you have ten minutes then you’ll know about where you’ll be when you have to stop. If you have to give a bit of background, for instance you want to read from the third chapter, practice your preface as well, adding the time it takes into your reading.
Use inflections. Pretend you’re reading for a small child. Do different voices for your characters. Let your volume rise if it’s getting more and more exciting. Use pauses to build tension. And don’t be afraid of changing your facial expressions and using body language. Make eye contact with your audience. It makes them feel as if they’re part of the reading and not just spectators.
Props can be used IF appropriate. I sometimes use stuffed cats with mine. Or I have one where I could use a dragon. It will make you more memorable but don’t over do it. They’re to enhance your presentation not detract from.
Read loud enough to be heard in the back of the room. Sometimes, there are mics available. Sometimes not. Be prepared. Ask someone in the back to raise their hand if they can’t hear you and watch for that hand.
After your reading have business cards available for anyone who might ask for your web address or where they can read your book or more of your writing.
Better yet, have copies of your book, anthology, or magazine you appear in. Also, ask if they’d like it signed. Some like to have them personalized, others just want a general signature.
I hope this answered many of the questions about what happens at a signing and what a writer does. If not, feel free to let me know.
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Post by dragonlots on Feb 25, 2010 12:11:06 GMT -5
Oops. Meant reading not signing in the final sentence.
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Post by tris on Feb 26, 2010 16:41:28 GMT -5
Thanks, dragonlots. You've given me a lot to chew on. Next question is how does one get invited to do readings?
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Post by torainfor on Feb 28, 2010 19:41:13 GMT -5
I read something Spider Robinson wrote once about reading at a sci fi con. He said the best readings are often the funniest. What would provoke a single reader to smile or maybe chuckle can have an entire room of listeners roaring.
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Post by dragonlots on Mar 2, 2010 13:17:50 GMT -5
Another question has been asked regarding readings. Normally, only big name authors will be asked to do readings. However, newbies can show up at open readings, or they can, like I just did, contact programming at various conventions and ask for one. No guarantee that it will be granted, but it’s a way to get your name known.
Also, arranging to speak at libraries, bookstores, etc. are pretty much up to the writer themselves. Your publisher isn’t going to arrange it. As I said previously, they only spend marketing money on the big names.
SF conventions are, however, an excellent beginning place. Build your reader/fan base locally and expand from there. This community is well networked and word of your book will spread. I myself have connections in Portland, OR, Salt Lake City, NM, NJ,NY, TX, MT, not to mention my already established readership on fanfiction.net – which is global. Important side note here – this doesn’t happen overnight. It took me five years on FFN before I got discovered and have the fan base I do. Same for the cons – it takes awhile.
This is why I’m telling you to show up at your local cons and participate in their open readings. Many conventions have them. Some do not. Contact the programming chair and ask. Also, volunteer to be a panelist. Or, if they don’t know you, volunteer and get known. It will open many doors for you. Not just to participate, but also meet local writers, editors and publishers.
Now, bare in mind they’re there with their ‘fan’ hat on. That means no pitches unless they ask for one. Just hang out and get to know them. Believe me, they’ll remember you if you submit to them. You piece might not get accepted at first, but they’re more inclined to look at your work if they know you. You might even get a personal rejection rather than a form letter.
Above all, be professional. SF fandom right now is working to overcome the mistaken impression that all ‘fan boys’ live in their parent’s basements, have never kissed a girl, and spend their days reading, playing video games, etc. Avoid offensive phrases like ‘pasty white boys’ or exhibiting the type of stereotyped behavior/language the mundanes expect of us. (Mundanes – none SF folk.)
If unsure how to act see if you can find someone willing to introduce you around and act as your guide/mentor. This will help your acceptance into fandom. Yes, this is important because many of your readings not to mention readers are here. There are Christians involved in local fandoms. Many of us, myself included, allowed the fans to get to know me before I made my faith known. Using this method allows them to know you as a person, not a religious fanatic and makes acceptance into this tight knit community much easier.
Science Fiction is both a genre and a lifestyle. Remember that. Don’t judge. Just be a friend. God will open doors to witness but they’re often a few seconds and then you MUST shut your mouth. These are people who have been hurt by religion. Love them. Be their friend. Be tolerant. They’re going to say things about what you believe that will hurt. You have to develop a thick skin and love them as God does.
And above all, be far minded. It could take decades before God can work in their lives. You might never see the results of your example. Believe me, it is a huge witness for a Christian to hang out with SF folk. Most, when they become believers, abandon them and run for the hills in terror. Show you aren’t like that – that you’re there for the long hall. It will gain you a respect you aren’t even aware of.
I’m aware I’ve addressed more than just readings. It is extremely important for Christians to understand some of subtle aspects inside fandom in order to gain acceptance and have a spiritual influence. Locally, I’ve noticed the number of believers increase at conventions. This has not always been the case. There was maybe a couple of us. Last Con - around nine. Doesn’t sound like much among a thousand attendees, but it’s significant.
God is moving here and calling Christians for the ministry. When He first started doing that the devil kicked up quite a fuss. SF fandom had been one of the last strongholds and now the grip is being loosened. Be aware there will be spiritual warfare here. Face it and hang in there. The reward is worth it.
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